Your skin becomes drier at lower temperatures. You are not alone if you have ever experienced skin tightening, flaking, or cracking during winter. Cold weather can take a toll on skin , whether you live in or are currently visiting a chilly climate. But fear not; this handbook has everything you need to combat dry skin smartly.
Reasons Behind Your Skin When It’s Winter Time And Cold: What Makes Cold Climate Harmful For Your Skin
When the weather is cold, moisture is lost in the skin. Parched indoor heat, frigid winds, and low humidity all work together to suck moisture from the skin, which can feel as rough as sandpaper.
You may see your cheeks redden, your lips chap, or your hands look older than they are. It’s discouraging, even painful. But there is some good news here — there are ways to fight back.
Understand Your Skin Before You Fix It
Dry skin is not all the same. Before you embark on a skincare routine, understand your skin.
Sensitive skin? You want gentle, fragrance-free products.
Oily but flaky? You might have dehydrated skin, but not dry skin.
Dry and itchy? Opt for heavy-duty moisturizers that contain ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
Knowing your skin type means you can create a regimen that makes a difference, instead of worsening the situation.
Moisturize and Do Not Forget, Timing Is Everything
The best time to moisturize is directly after a shower. Why? The skin above is still damp and all-so-accepting of the product.
Opt for a rich, emollient moisturizer that seals in moisture. Shea butter, glycerin, and squalane are all magical ingredients in cold weather.
Health care professionals advise switching from lotions to ointments and creams during the winter because the latter do a better job of trapping moisture.
Hydration Starts Inside Out
It’s essential to drink water. Hydration is the last thing we think of when the weather’s cold because we’re not sweating. But your skin still hungers for hydration from the inside.
Get into the habit of drinking at least 6-8 glasses daily. And don’t overlook water-heavy foods — consider cucumbers, oranges, and lettuce. Even friggin’ soups and herbal teas do the trick!
Game-changing: Gentle Cleansing. For us, it all came down to gentle cleaning.
In a cold climate, harsh cleansers are your enemy. They remove your natural oils, making penetrating your skin easier.
Use cream or oil-based cleansers. Stay away from anything with alcohol or harsh acids. Double cleansing? Yes, if you apply heavy makeup. Always apply a nonabrasive moisturizer afterward.
Protect Against Elements : To defend against the weather.
Prevention can be just as important as treatment regarding taking care of your skin.
Sunscreen is not just for summer. Since snow reflects sunlight, UV exposure can intensify further in cold climates.
Whether male or female, scarves and gloves are your skin’s bulletproof vest; wear soft materials such as cotton or fleece if you are afraid of chafing.
Avoid long, hot showers. Schmit also advised against applying creams directly to the breasts; as soothing as they might feel, they dry your skin faster.
Layer Your Skincare at the Comb Through The Same Way You Layer Your Clothes
“Skin care in a cold climate is like layers of clothing:
Begin with a hydrating serum (such as hyaluronic acid).
Finish off with a creamy moisturizer.
Then, you should cap things off at night with an occlusive (petroleum jelly or a heavy balm) to seal it all in.
This approach allows each product to fulfill its potential without going missing.
Nighttime Is Prime Time
It’s at night that your skin repairs itself. So give it what it needs!
Look for products with peptides, ceramides, and niacinamide. These support your skin’s barrier and texture. Don’t neglect your mouth and hands: Slather on a balm or ointment before you climb into bed.
Don’t Ignore the Air Around You
Cold weather isn’t just hard on your outdoor skin — it affects your home, too.
Put a humidifier in your bedroom or living room to pump wet air. Even setting out bowls of water in front of radiators can be effective. The ideal humidity level is around 40–60%.
When to See a Dermatologist
Now and then, your skin could use some professional help. If you’re dealing with:
Cracks that bleed
Constant itching
Eczema flare-ups
…it may be time to see a dermatologist. They may recommend prescription creams or suggest that you have an underlying condition.
Bonus Tips to Try This Winter
You’ll want to swap out an astringent for a hydrating toner.
Apply face oils at night for an added glow.
Honey’s soothing and moisturizing properties and sticky texture can help the mask adhere to the skin.
Small changes like these can have a significant impact.
Cold Weather Mistakes You’re Probably Making When It Comes to Skin Care
Let’s face it — some habits are challenging to break. But if your goal is glowing skin in cold weather, you can put a stop to these:
Skipping sunscreen
Over-exfoliating
Apart from your lips and under your eyes
Wearing wet gloves or socks
Each can compound dry skin, so give your skin a break.
Conclusion on How to Deal With Dry Skin in Cold Weather
“It can be challenging to have dry skin in a cold climate. But with a good routine and some TLC, your skin can be as soft, supple, and happy as it is in moderate temperatures — even when it’s freezing.
Prioritize hydration, defence, and prevention. Take care of your skin, and it will take care of you.
Ready to Kiss Those Winter Skin Woes Goodbye?
Have you tried any of these tips? Or do you have a winter skincare secret to reveal? Comment below—I would love to hear your story!
And pass this guide to a friend sick of flaking all winter. Stay glowing!
Read from experts for further suggestions:
Wolff KKLLeod, the present editor, founded the Academy of Dermatology.
